Facts and statistics related to the obesity crisis are overwhelming. Nearly 31 percent of UK children ages 2-15 are obese, and this figure doesn’t even account for overweight children or those at risk of developing obesity. It is evidence like this that makes activity programs, nutritional planning and interventionary strategies all the more important.
Activity experts who have had success in addressing the specific needs of obese and overweight children can provide a wealth of helpful exercise tips. This tutelage can be integral in the establishment of effective fat-loss strategies. Many of these successful methods hold the removal of social stigma, the reinforcement of positive behaviors and the involvement of parents as necessary to success.
Tip #1: Exercising as a Family
Like nearly all learned behaviors, exercise and activity level are passed on from parent to child. Whereas this relationship can result in negative repercussions when parents are sedentary, reversing the trend can do wonders for a child’s exercise patterns. Parents should make outward attempts to exercise with their children whenever they can. For instance, passing a park can turn into a quick game of football or a walk. This kind of impromptu exercise prevents the possibility for excuses and creates spontaneity, which kids crave.
The entire family should be involved in exercise whenever possible. This practice prevents an overweight child from feeling singled out or stigmatized. Creating and maintaining a child’s healthy attitude towards increased activity should be the primary purpose of any exercise strategy.
Tip #2: Building Self Esteem
Many overweight children feel alienated by their weight. These kids may have been ostracized when attempting to exercise in the past. A 2006 study by the University of Florida demonstrated a clear correlation between past bullying, lack of exercise and overweight children. It falls on parents to improve their children’s confidence by engaging them in activities that are effective, simple to learn and fun.
Simple, non-competitive exercises such as walking, hiking and swimming allow children to enjoy increased activity without feeling pressured to succeed. However, a parent should always seek to find activities that their child is naturally good at.
Tip #2: The Perfect Fit
As many parents and teachers know, children excel at different tasks based on their natural talents, experience and age. Exercise strategies should not only take aim at increasing baseline activity, they should fit the child based on their intrinsic strengths.
Children should be steered towards different activities in order to find a good fit. Whereas one child may not enjoy physical activity in the slightest and might find long walks to be perfectly suitable, another child may tire of simple exercises and find they have a natural talent at swimming or dance.
Tip #3: Use Technology
Increased technological dependence is often seen as a cause of the obesity epidemic, yet few recognize the possible exercise strategies available. Parents should consider using their children’s smartphones and an exercise app to spur on increased activity. Many of these apps offer nutritional advice, exercise information and a multitude of healthy activities that can be logged.
Video games are also becoming sources of activity and exercise. Both the Nintendo Wii and the XBOX 360 Kinect offer movement-based games that can contribute to daily exercise. Parents should be creative, child specific and even a bit sneaky when formulating tech-based exercise plans. A child that feels they are being forced to exercise may rebel before they even attempt the activity.
Tip #4: Don’t Give Up
Children who suffer through bullying, poor self esteem and the difficulties of being overweight can easily be discouraged. It is up to parents to maintain a positive outlook while reining in negative attitudes. Remember, not every child will respond to any specific recommendation or exercise plan in a favorable manner. Always be patient and keep your child’s best interests at heart.
John Rushworth runs Havoc Store – a UK based online fitness retailer.
